Kansas House rejects key change in personal injury suits

Chamber-backed change rejected; damage limits raised slightly

Kansas House members have rejected a change in evidence rules for personal injury lawsuits sought by the state Chamber of Commerce before giving first-round approval to a bill also raising limits on some damages.

The House voted 82-33 to delete a section to end a ban on having juries hear whether alleged injury victims already have losses covered by insurance or other sources.

The Kansas Chamber contends that the law leads to double compensation for some injuries. Several attorneys said the current rule makes sure wrongdoers are held fully accountable.

The House advanced the bill without the provision on a voice vote. A final vote is expected Monday.

The bill passed the Senate last month. It increases the state’s $250,000 limit on non-economic damages to $350,000 by 2022.